Whether you use them to spread across warm pieces of toasty bread or slather them generously over waffles to fill every nook and cranny, it’s safe to agree that fruit-based spreads are essential parts of the American diner breakfast experience. Despite their undeniable popularity, most people don’t know the difference in the varying types of fruit-based spreads. If you’ve ever been curious about what makes one different from the next, use the following guide.

7 Fruit-Based Spreads Explained

1. Jam

Simply put, jam is fruit, sugar, and pectin — a substance used for thickening. Acids are occasionally added to jams to help soften the fruit. Making jam involves mashing up fruit and cooking it with sugar, which acts as a preservative. Once the mixture cooks down to evaporate the excess water, the remaining softened chunks of fruit become jam.

2. Jelly

Jellies and jams are often confused, but they aren’t the same at all. Jelly is made from fruits that are not only mashed but also strained to remove the bigger pieces. By the time it enters the pot to cook with the sugar and pectin, it’s like fruit juice. You can find jelly on practically every diner table in America.

3. Compote

Compotes are made from crushing fruit and cooking it with water and spices, similar to the process of making jam or jelly. The difference here is that while jams and jellies are made to last, compotes are intended to be enjoyed warm and fresh.

4. Marmalade

Marmalade sets itself apart by the types of fruits people use to make it. While you can make jellies and jams from any fruit, marmalades are made from citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. This spread derives its pectin from the rind, which also lends a tangy flavor.

5. Conserves & Preserves

Conserves are chunky jams with add-ins such as nuts and dried fruits. Preserves, on the other hand, are just like jam, but rather than dicing or smashing the fruit, you add large chunks to the mixture. Sometimes, the fruit is even whole.

6. Fruit Butter

Contrary to popular belief, there is no butter in fruit butter. It’s the creamy texture of this spread that gives it its name. Fruit butters are fruits that are cooked down with sugars — but without pectins — until they form a thick sauce.

7. Chutney

Chutney sets itself apart by being the only savory flavor profile in the group. It isn’t uncommon to see vegetables, fruits, vinegars, and savory spices in chutneys. However, they can still have sweet components.

Craving something sweet? Belgian Waffle & Pancake House in Branson, MO, is your one-stop diner for waffles, pancakes, artisan sandwiches, and more. Try one of their sumptuous compotes over a waffle or French toast, or try the supper pot roast for more of a home-cooked experience. Whatever you’re looking for, this diner has it. Check out their menu online or call (417) 334-8484 today.